Airbnb announced on Apr. 8 the launch of its new Host Earnings Calculator, aimed at helping residents in FIFA World Cup 2026 host cities estimate potential earnings from hosting during the tournament.
The tool is designed to address growing demand for accommodations as millions of fans are expected to attend the event, with Airbnb reporting an 80 percent increase in searches for stays in host cities during the tournament period. According to Airbnb, about one in six guests booking accommodations in Canada, Mexico, and the United States during this time will be using Airbnb for the first time.
The Host Earnings Calculator provides instant estimates based on users’ individual preferences—such as location, dates, duration of hosting, and type of listing—using data from similar listings offered during the tournament. Dave Stephenson, Chief Business Officer at Airbnb, said: “The FIFA World Cup 2026 is approaching fast, and fans from around the world are looking for places to stay in the communities we all call home. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for locals to open their doors and earn from the biggest sporting event on the planet. For anyone considering hosting, our Host Earnings Calculator makes it easy to estimate what you could earn on Airbnb during the tournament, based on how you choose to host – and we are offering an extra $750 to new hosts.”
To further encourage participation by new hosts across all 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico and the US, Airbnb has launched its largest incentive program yet: new entire-home hosts who welcome their first guests by July 31 will receive an additional $750 beyond regular earnings.
Recent survey data cited by Focaldata shows that nearly 90 percent of residents believe income from hosting would positively impact their finances; many plan to use extra funds toward debt repayment (40%), living expenses (35%), or home improvements (33%). As reported by Airbnb’s official website (link), opportunities exist throughout neighborhoods not typically associated with tourism.
According to information provided by Airbnb’s official website, Airbnb enables hosts worldwide—including those across more than 220 countries and regions—to share homes or offer local experiences such as cooking classes or guided tours. The company began when founders rented out air mattresses in their apartment as a way to cover rent costs.
